Hugh Bigod, 1st earl of Norfolk

Bigod, Hugh, 1st earl of Norfolk (bĪˈgŏd, nôrˈfək) [key], d. 1177, English nobleman. He was instrumental in securing the throne for Stephen in 1135, but he subsequently switched his allegiance back and forth between Stephen and Matilda, and it is not known for sure which one of them created him earl of Norfolk. He finally cast his lot with the future Henry II in 1153. In 1173 he joined the revolt of Henry's sons against their father. His lands were seized, his castle was burned, and a heavy fine was exacted.